Justification:Serapias stenopetala is assessed as Critically Endangered because it has a very small population (<250 individuals), with fewer than 50 mature individuals in each subpopulation along with continuing declines and extreme fluctuations.

Serapias stenopetala is a species endemic to Algeria and Tunisia (de Bélair and Boussouak 2002; Delforge 2001, 2005). Maire (1952-1987) considers this to be a subspecies. It has been observed in El Kala, at Guelma (l'Aouara) and between Annaba and Lake Fetzara. At the latter site it has not been seen again. Quézel and Santa (1963) don't recognize this sighting. Four localities were found near the lakes Mellah and Oubeïra. In Tunisia, its presence in Kroumirie has been confirmed. Its extent of occurrence is below 5,000 km² and its area of occupation is very small and below 500 km².

Serapias stenopetala is extremely scarce and each known population numbers only a few individuals. The known locations are very scattered and the number of individuals at each location may vary from two to three up to 25 to 30 (in favourable years even sixty) individuals. Two additional sites have recently been discovered in Tunisia. The total population is estimated to be below 250 mature individuals.

Serapias stenopetala is a perennial orchid that blooms from late April to May. In the Mediterranean bioclimate with temperate to mild winters, this species forms small populations with scattered individuals at the shores of lake Mellah, the wadi El Aroug and ditches close to the lake Oubeïra. It usually grows on wet peat. It is widely distributed in the middle of grass associations of Juncus maritimus.

All orchids are included under Annex B of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

No other conservation measures are in place. There are only a few endemic species of the sub-littoral plains in Numidia (Algeria) and thus they are particularly vulnerable. A policy of protection and conservation is urgently needed.

In-Place Research, Monitoring and PlanningIn-Place Land/Water Protection and ManagementIn-Place Species ManagementIn-Place Education Included in international legislation:Yes Subject to any international management/trade controls:Yes